Tim Tebow has canceled an April appearance at a Baptist church in Dallas whose pastor has made controversial statements about other faiths, homosexuality and President Obama.

Tebow at the Sugar Bowl. (Doug Finger/The Gainesville Sun

His plan to speak there had drawn criticism around the country from many who – like the Orlando Sentinel’s Mike Bianchi – urged the popular quarterback not to tie himself to the “hateful” Pastor Robert Jeffress.

Tebow announced his change of plans on Twitter with a string of tweets that seemed to indicate he had been unaware of the pastor’s history of divisive comments.

He tweeted: “While I was looking forward to sharing a message of hope and Christ’s unconditional love with the faithful members of the historic … First Baptist Church of Dallas in April, due to new information that has been brought to my attention, I have decided to cancel my … upcoming appearance. I will continue to use the platform God has blessed me with to bring Faith, Hope and Love to all those … needing a brighter day. Thank you for all of your love and support. God Bless!”

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